Pages

Sunday, November 25, 2012

The addition of 42 new teacher iPads has really kept me busy this year. Between walking all of these teachers through the setup process and setting up their Apple TVs, I have been consumed with getting things off the ground. It has been great to see teachers get so excited about this new technology. This is especially true this year as all teachers delve into the new Common Core and Essential Standards and have an increased amount of stress. We have a core group of teachers who received iPads last year. These teachers along with myself and our principal are the go to group to help teachers as they learn more about using these devices in the classroom.

I developed an afternoon iPad Play Time to help teachers get more comfortable with their new iPads. About 15 teachers attended and it was so great to see their enthusiasm. With my principal's financial support, I was able to create a fun environment for teachers to learn. We provided large amounts of candy and offered door prizes. We gave away three $10 iTunes gift cards. There were multiple stations set-up for teachers that included directions on everything from creating folders, to using specific apps, or using QR Codes. While teachers used these, they spent more time just sharing apps or things they had already learned about their iPads.

If your school has iPads for every teacher, this is a great way to help them become more comfortable with a device. The teachers at my school were so excited and requested that we offer more iPad Play Time sessions. Another activity that will follow this is App Speed Dating. I look forward to seeing how teachers use iPads to enhance instruction in their classrooms.

Monday, November 5, 2012

For the last 16 years I have been at Flat Rock Middle School as a student teacher, a classroom teacher and a media coordinator. To be honest, I thought I would spend my entire career with Henderson County Public Schools. In my district I have been provided so many opportunities to learn, grow and lead. However, I recognize that it is time for a new challenge. Now, I have to admit that while I embrace certain types of change, making this change fills me with sadness. Sadness because I will be leaving a place I consider my second home. Moving away from the comfort of my library is somewhat daunting, but I am looking forward to the future.

Starting November 29th I will start my new position with the NC Department of Public Instruction as the Region 8 Instructional Technology Consultant. I am excited about the opportunity to work with the media and technology professionals in western North Carolina and throughout the state. The best part is that I will be working with some wonderful people including, but not limited to, my library bestie, Jennifer LaGarde.

I look forward to sharing my new adventures with you. Thank you for the support along the way.